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Published on: February 15, 2018
Breastfeeding is associated with lower risk for multiple sclerosis
Silja Conradi1, Uwe Malzahn, Friedemann Paul
1Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|September 7, 2012
Summary
Breastfeeding may reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). This study found a protective effect, particularly with breastfeeding durations exceeding four months, supporting its role in preventing autoimmune diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Pediatric autoimmune diseases
- Public health
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder with complex genetic and environmental influences.
- Breastfeeding is recognized for its protective role in various autoimmune conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between breastfeeding in infancy and the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS).
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 245 MS patients and 296 controls in Berlin.
- Data collected via standardized questionnaires on breastfeeding history and demographic factors.
- Statistical analysis using univariable and multivariable logistic regression, adjusted for confounders.
Main Results:
- Breastfeeding demonstrated an independent association with a reduced risk of MS (adjusted OR 0.58, p=0.028).
- A protective effect was observed specifically for breastfeeding durations longer than four months (adjusted OR 0.51, p=0.016).
- No significant protective effect was found for breastfeeding durations of four months or less.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the hypothesis that breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of MS.
- These results align with previous research indicating breastfeeding's protective effects in other autoimmune diseases.
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